Organic electroluminescence element

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to an organic electroluminescence element in which a transparent first electrode, an organic light emitting layer, a second electrode are stacked on a translucent substrate in this order. The translucent substrate includes a moisture-proof layer facing the first electrode. An LR layer and an HR layer having a refractive index higher than a refractive index of the LR layer are situated between the moisture-proof layer and the first electrode in this order from the moisture-proof layer. An uneven structure is provided at an interface between the LR layer and the HR layer. A linear expansivity α of the moisture-proof layer, and a linear expansivity β of the LR layer, and a linear expansivity γ of the HR layer satisfy a relation of α≦β≦γ.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to organic electroluminescence elements.

BACKGROUND ART

In a known general structure of an organic electroluminescence element(hereinafter referred to as “organic EL element”), a transparentelectrode used as an anode, a hole transport layer, a light emittinglayer, an electron injection layer, and a cathode are stacked on asurface of a transparent substrate in this order. It is known that suchan organic EL element is used to produce a planar light emitting device(lighting panel). In this organic EL element, light is produced in anorganic light emitting layer in response to application of voltagebetween the anode and the cathode, and the produced light is emittedoutside through the transparent electrode and the transparent substrateand goes outside.

The organic EL element gives a self-emission light in variouswavelengths, with a relatively high yield. Such organic EL elements areexpected to be applied for production of displaying apparatuses (e.g.,light emitters used for such as flat panel displays), and light sources(e.g., liquid-crystal displaying backlights and illuminating lightsources). Some of organic EL elements have already been developed forpractical uses. Recently, in consideration of application anddevelopment of organic EL elements to such uses, an organic EL elementhaving high efficiency, prolonged lifetime, and high brightness isexpected.

It is considered that the efficiency of the organic EL element is mainlydominated by three of electrical-optical conversion efficiency, drivingvoltage, and light-outcoupling efficiency. With regard to theelectrical-optical conversion efficiency, it was reported that theorganic EL element with the light emitting layer made of phosphorescentlight emitting material can have external quantum efficiency greaterthan 20%. The external quantum efficiency of 20% is considered to becorresponding to internal quantum efficiency of about 100%. It isconsidered that the organic EL element having the electrical-opticalconversion efficiency reaching a limiting value has been developed. Inview of the driving voltage, an organic EL element which showsrelatively high brightness in receipt of voltage higher by 10 to 20%than voltage corresponding to an energy gap of the light emitting layerhas been developed. Consequently, it is expected that improvement ofthese two factors (electrical-optical conversion) is not so effectivefor an increase in the efficiency of the organic EL element.

Generally, the organic EL element has the light-outcoupling efficiencyin the range of about 20 to 30% (this value slightly changes dependingon lighting patterns, and/or a layer structure between the anode and thecathode). This light-outcoupling efficiency is not high. This lowlight-outcoupling efficiency may be explained by the followingconsideration: materials used for light emitting portion and a vicinitythereof have characteristics such as a high refractive index and lightabsorption properties, and therefore the total reflection at theinterfaces between materials with different refractive indices andabsorption of light by materials may occur and this causes inhibition ofeffective propagation of light to the outside. Such lowlight-outcoupling efficiency means 70 to 80% of the total amount ofemitted light does not effectively contribute to light emission.Consequently, it is considered that improvement of the light-outcouplingefficiency causes a great increase in the efficiency of the organic ELelement.

In consideration of the above background, there is studied and developedactively to improve the light-outcoupling efficiency. Especially, therehave been many efforts to increase the amount of light which is emittedfrom the organic layer and reaches the substrate layer. For example, theorganic layer has the refractive index of about 1.7, and a glass layergenerally serving as the substrate has the refractive index of about1.5, and ITO generally used for the transparent electrode has therefractive index in a range of about 1.8 to 2.0. In this case, a losscaused by total reflection at the interface between the transparentelectrode and the glass layer probably reaches about 50% of totallyreflected light. The value of about 50% is-calculated by use of pointsource approximation in consideration that the emitted light isexpressed as an integration of three dimensional radiation of light fromorganic molecules. Unfortunately, the total reflection at the interfacebetween the organic layer and the substrate tends to cause a great loss.In view of this, it is possible to greatly improve the light-outcouplingefficiency of the organic EL element by decreasing the loss caused bythe total reflection between the organic layer and the substrate.

CITATION LIST Patent Literature

Patent Literature 1: JP 2005-322490 A

SUMMARY OF INVENTION Technical Problem

As a method for reducing total reflection loss between the organic layerand the substrate, to provide a layer with a light-outcoupling structurebetween the substrate and the transparent electrode is known. Suchlight-outcoupling structures are formed by dispersing fine particles inresin to cause scattering of light or by providing a diffractionstructure to a resin layer. When the light-outcoupling structure ispresent, normally a surface of a layer formed on the light-outcouplingstructure is likely to be uneven. In this regard, it is preferable thatthe transparent electrode and the organic layer be formed on a surfacewhich is not uneven as possible. Hence, generally, the uneven surface ofthe light-outcoupling structure is covered with a layer with a flatsurface. Therefore, the light-outcoupling structure is realized by atleast two layers, and is defined as a laminate structure with an uneveninterface of these two layers. For example, patent literature 1discloses a technique of providing a physically uneven region to aninterface between two transparent resin layers.

However, in the process of forming the light-outcoupling structure,adjustment of refractive indices may be performed in addition toflattening. Such adjustment of refractive indices may be done by use ofparticles or the like. In this case, the resin may contain particles andtherefore such resin is likely to be brittle. As a result, thermalstresses of two layers may differ, and thus the light-outcouplingstructure and stacked layers (e.g., the light emitting layer and theelectrode) are likely to be easily cracked. Especially, in theproduction of the organic EL element, after formation of thelight-outcoupling structure, the electrode and the organic layer areformed under a condition where they have a temperature higher than atemperature of resin. In such heating conditions, cracks are likely toeasily occur. Therefore, it is impossible to form good stacked layers,and even when the layers are stacked, fine cracks may occur in thelayers, and therefore the reliability may become poor. Further, theorganic EL layer may generate heat when emitting light, and thereforeheat caused by the operation may cause expansion of the layers and thisis likely to lead to occurrence of cracks.

In view of the above insufficiency, the present invention has aimed toimprove the light-outcoupling efficiency by reducing total reflectionloss and suppress occurrence of cracks or the like to propose an organicelectroluminescence element with high light emitting performance andhigh reliability.

Solution to Problem

The organic electroluminescence element in accordance with the presentinvention includes the following configuration.

The organic electroluminescence element includes: a translucentsubstrate; a first electrode with light transmissive properties; anorganic light emitting layer; and a second electrode. The firstelectrode, the organic light emitting layer, and the second electrodeare stacked on the translucent substrate in this order. The translucentsubstrate includes a moisture-proof layer facing the first electrode.The organic electroluminescence element includes: an LR layer and an HRlayer having a refractive index higher than a refractive index of the LRlayer which are situated between the moisture-proof layer and the firstelectrode in this order from the moisture-proof layer; and an unevenstructure provided at an interface between the LR layer and the HRlayer. The organic electroluminescence element satisfies a relation ofα≦β≦γ, wherein α denotes a linear expansivity of the moisture-prooflayer, and β denotes a linear expansivity of the LR layer, and γ denotesa linear expansivity of the HR layer.

In a preferable aspect of the organic electroluminescence element inaccordance with the present invention, the organic electroluminescenceelement further includes an auxiliary electrode which has a mesh-likeshape and is provided on a surface of the first electrode. In this case,more preferably, the organic electroluminescence element furtherincludes an insulating film on a side of the auxiliary electrode closeto the organic light emitting layer.

In a preferable aspect of the organic electroluminescence element inaccordance with the present invention, the organic electroluminescenceelement further includes a groove region dividing at least the HR layer.In this case, preferably, the groove region divides both the HR layerand the LR layer. Further, more preferably, the groove region becomessmaller in width towards its bottom than at its top. Further, morepreferably, the organic electroluminescence element further includes anauxiliary wire provided inside the groove region. Further, morepreferably, the auxiliary wire has a thickness equal to or shorter thana depth of the groove region. Further, more preferably, the organicelectroluminescence element further includes an insulating part providedinside the groove region so as to be closer to the second electrode thanthe auxiliary wire is. Further, more preferably, the organicelectroluminescence element further includes an insulating layer betweenthe moisture-proof layer and the LR layer. The organicelectroluminescence element satisfies a relation of α≦σ≦β≦γ, wherein σdenotes a linear expansivity of the insulating layer.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the present invention, the light-outcoupling efficiency canbe improved by existence of the light-outcoupling structure realized bythe LR layer and the HR layer. Further, the linear expansivities of thelayers of interest satisfy the aforementioned condition, and thereforeit is possible to suppress occurrence of cracks and the like in thelayers of interest and other layers formed thereon. As a result, theorganic electroluminescence element with high light emitting performanceand high reliability can be obtained.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a section illustrating an example of an embodiment of anorganic electroluminescence element.

FIG. 2 is a cutaway plan illustrating an example of the embodiment ofthe organic electroluminescence element.

FIG. 3 is a section illustrating an example of the embodiment of theorganic electroluminescence element.

FIG. 4 is a partial section illustrating an example of the embodiment ofthe organic electroluminescence element.

FIGS. 5(a) to 5(g) are sections relating to an example of a process ofproducing the organic electroluminescence element.

FIGS. 6(a) to 6(g) are sections relating to an example of a process ofproducing the organic electroluminescence element.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows an example of an embodiment of the organicelectroluminescence element (organic EL element). This organic ELelement includes a translucent substrate 1, a first electrode 5 withlight transmissive properties, an organic light emitting layer 6, and asecond electrode 7. The first electrode 5, the organic light emittinglayer 6, and the second electrode 7 are stacked on the translucentsubstrate 1 in this order. The translucent substrate 1 includes amoisture-proof layer 1 a facing the first electrode 5. The organic ELelement includes an LR layer 2 and an HR layer 3 having a refractiveindex higher than a refractive index of the LR layer 2 which aresituated between the moisture-proof layer 1 a and the first electrode 5in this order from the moisture-proof layer 1 a. The organic EL elementincludes an uneven structure 4 provided at an interface between the LRlayer 2 and the HR layer 3. The organic EL element satisfying a relationof α≦β≦γ, wherein α denotes a linear expansivity of the moisture-prooflayer 1 a, and β denotes a linear expansivity of the LR layer 2, and γdenotes a linear expansivity of the HR layer 3. As described above, theLR layer 2 which is a layer with a low refractive index is placedadjacent to the translucent substrate 1, and the HR layer 3 which is alayer with a high refractive index is placed adjacent to the firstelectrode 5, and therefore a difference between refractive indices isreduced and thus total reflection is suppressed, and consequently it ispossible to increase an amount of light emerging outside. Further, theuneven structure 4 is provided at the interface between the LR layer 2and the HR layer 3, and therefore light is scattered by this unevenstructure 4, and consequently it is possible to reduce total reflectionloss and thus to more improve the light-outcoupling efficiency. Further,the linear expansivities of the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 satisfythe aforementioned relation, and therefore it is possible to suppressoccurrence of clacks or the like. As a result, it is possible to obtainthe organic electroluminescence element which is high in light emittingperformance and reliability.

FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the organic EL element of the implementedembodiment of FIG. 1 (i.e., a representation when viewed in a directionperpendicular to the surface of the translucent substrate 1). In FIG. 2,to clearly illustrate the internal structure of the element, anenclosing member 8 is omitted, and a region to which the enclosingmember 8 is to be bonded is illustrated with hatching. Note that, FIG. 1shows a section along line (i)-(i) in FIG. 2. Further, broken linesrepresent an auxiliary electrode 10 which is not exposed.

The translucent substrate 1 is a transparent substrate with lighttransmissive properties. In the present implemented embodiment, thetranslucent substrate 1 includes the moisture-proof layer 1 a withmoisture-proof properties. When the translucent substrate 1 includes themoisture-proof layer 1 a, it is possible to suppress intrusion ofmoisture through the translucent substrate 1. It is sufficient that thetranslucent substrate 1 includes the moisture-proof layer 1 a, andtherefore the translucent substrate 1 may be constituted by only themoisture-proof layer 1 a, or may be constituted by a stack of themoisture-proof layer 1 a and a transparent material layer other than themoisture-proof layer 1 a. The moisture-proof layer 1 a constitutes apart of the translucent substrate 1 facing the first electrode 5. Whenthe translucent substrate 1 is constituted by a single layer which isthe moisture-proof layer 1 a, the moisture-proof layer 1 a serves as alayer of the translucent substrate 1 facing the first electrode 5. Whenthe translucent substrate 1 is constituted by two or more layers, thetranslucent substrate 1 is constituted by the moisture-proof layer 1 aand a transparent material layer provided to the opposite surface of themoisture-proof layer 1 a from the first electrode 5. FIG. 1 shows thetranslucent substrate 1 constituted by a single layer defined by themoisture-proof layer 1 a. However, a transparent material layer may beformed on the opposite side of the moisture-proof layer 1 a from thefirst electrode 5. Note that, the term “translucent” means “lighttransmissive”.

The moisture-proof layer 1 a may be a glass substrate or the like. Whenthe moisture-proof layer 1 a is a glass substrate, glass has lowmoisture permeability, and therefore it is possible to suppressintrusion of moisture into an inside of an enclosed region. In theorganic EL element of the present implemented embodiment, the LR layer 2and the HR layer 3 are stacked in this order on a surface of themoisture-proof layer 1 a of the translucent substrate 1, and a lightemitting stack constituted by a stack of the first electrode 5, theorganic light emitting layer 6, and the second electrode 7 is providedon a surface of the HR layer 3. In a plan view (when viewed in adirection perpendicular to a surface of a substrate), a region on whichthe light emitting stack is provided is a central region of thetranslucent substrate 1. The light emitting stack is enclosed by beingcovered with the enclosing member 8 which is bonded to the translucentsubstrate 1 at a position of an outer periphery surrounding the lightemitting stack, and thus the light emitting stack is disposed inside theenclosed region.

The first electrode 5 and the second electrode 7 define a pair ofelectrodes. Normally, the first electrode 5 serves as an anode, and thesecond electrode 7 serves as a cathode, and however the first electrode5 may serve as the cathode and the second electrode 7 may serve as theanode. The first electrode 5 has light transmissive properties and mayserve as an electrode for allowing light to emerge. Further, the secondelectrode 7 may have light reflective properties. In this case, lightemitted from the light emitting layer towards the second electrode 7 canemerge outside from the translucent substrate 1 by being reflected bythe second electrode 7. Alternatively, the second electrode 7 may be anelectrode with light transmissive properties. In a case where the secondelectrode 7 has light transmissive properties, it is possible to obtaina structure which allows light to emerge outside from a surface (rearsurface) facing the enclosing member 8. Alternatively, in a case wherethe second electrode 7 has light transmissive properties, by providing alight reflective layer to a rear surface (an opposite surface from theorganic light emitting layer 6) of the second electrode 7, light emittedfrom the light emitting layer towards the second electrode 7 can emergeoutside from the translucent substrate 1 by being reflected. In thisregard, the light reflective layer may be diffuse or specular.

The first electrode 5 may be made of transparent electrically conductivematerial. For example, the transparent electrically conductive materialmay be preferably electrically conductive metal oxide. The electricallyconductive metal oxide may be exemplified by ITO, IZO, AZO, or the like.The second electrode 7 may be made of appropriate electrode material.For example, the second electrode 7 may be made of Al or Ag.

In a case of a structure in which the second electrode 7 is a lighttransmissive electrode and light is allowed to emerge outside from theenclosing member 8, a light reflective film may be provided to a surfaceof the translucent substrate 1 (or the moisture-proof layer 1 a) facingthe outside. When the light reflective film is provided in such amanner, light which is emitted from the organic light emitting layer 6and passes through the first electrode 5 and travels toward themoisture-proof layer 1 a is reflected by the light reflective film, andthereby travels towards the enclosing member 8. Consequently, it ispossible to increase an amount of light emerging from the enclosingmember 8. The light reflective film may be made of a reflective metalfilm of Al or Ag.

The organic light emitting layer 6 is a layer with a function ofproducing light, and is normally constituted by two or more functionallayers appropriately selected from hole injection layers, hole transportlayers, light emitting layers, electron transport layers, electroninjection layers, interlayers, and the like. A thickness of the organiclight emitting layer 6 is not limited particularly, and may be in arange of 60 to 300 nm, for example.

In a case where the first electrode 5 is an anode and the secondelectrode 7 is a cathode, a laminated structure of the organic lightemitting layer 6 includes a hole transport layer, a light emittinglayer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layerwhich are arranged in this order from the first electrode 5, forexample. Note that, the laminated structure is not limited to thisexample, and for example may be a single structure of a light emittinglayer, or a laminated structure of a hole transport layer, a lightemitting layer, and an electron transport layer, or a laminatedstructure of a hole transport layer and a light emitting layer, or alaminated structure of a light emitting layer and an electron transportlayer. Further, the light emitting layer may have a single layerstructure or a multilayer structure. To obtain a white light emissioncolor, the light emitting layer may be doped with three dopant pigmentsof red, green, and blue, or a laminated structure of a blue holetransporting light emitting layer, a green electron transporting lightemitting layer, and a red electron transporting light emitting layer, ora laminated structure of a blue electron transporting light emittinglayer, a green electron transporting light emitting layer, and a redelectron transporting light emitting layer. Further, a laminatedstructure which is interposed between paired electrodes and emits lightin response to application of voltage between the paired electrodes maybe treated as one light emitting unit. In this case, a multiunitstructure may be used. In the multiunit structure, two or more lightemitting units are stacked and electrically connected with one or moreinterlayers in-between. Such interlayers may have light transmissive andelectrically conductive properties. The multiunit structure may be astructure in which two or more light emitting units are stacked in athickness direction between paired electrodes (anode and cathode).

The enclosing member 8 may be made of substrate material with lowmoisture permeability. Such substrate material may be a glass substrate,for example. In more detail, the substrate material may be soda-limeglass, non-alkali glass, or the like. They are relatively inexpensiveglass material and therefore it is possible to reduce production cost ofthe element. The enclosing member 8 may or may not include a recess foraccommodating the light emitting stack. When the enclosing member 8includes the recess, it is possible to enclose the light emitting stackwhile covering sides of the light emitting stack. Hence, intrusion ofmoisture can be suppressed more, and enclosing performance can beimproved. The enclosing member 8 including the recess may be a glasscap, for example. When the enclosing member 8 is devoid of the recess,enclosing is made under a condition where a flat surface of theenclosing member 8 faces the translucent substrate 1, and it is possibleto use a plate of base material without any modification. However, whenthe enclosing member 8 is devoid of the recess, it is necessary to forma side wall serving as a space for enclosing the light emitting stack.

The enclosing member 8 is bonded to the translucent substrate 1 withbonding material. The bonding material for bonding the enclosing member8 is provided to the translucent substrate 1 so as to surround an outerperiphery of the light emitting stack. As shown by a hatching region inFIG. 2, in the present implemented embodiment, the bonding material isprovided to be in contact with surfaces of separate parts of anelectrically conductive layer constituting the first electrode 5 andparts of a surface of the HR layer 3 exposed through gaps between theseparate parts of the electrically conductive layer. The enclosingmember 8 is bonded to the translucent substrate 1 with the bondingmaterial in this manner, and therefore the light emitting stack isisolated from the outside space and therefore is enclosed.

The bonding material for bonding the enclosing member 8 may beappropriate material functioning as adhesive, and for example resinbonding material. The resin bonding material may preferably havemoisture-proof properties. For example, when the resin bonding materialcontains desiccant, the moisture-proof properties of the resin bondingmaterial can be improved. The resin bonding material may havethermosetting resin, ultraviolet curable resin, or the like as a maincomponent.

A space (an enclosed inner space 9) which is between the translucentsubstrate 1 and the enclosing member 8 and accommodates the lightemitting stack (organic light emitting layer 6) may be filled withfiller, or serve as a hollow enclosed space. When the enclosed innerspace 9 is used as an enclosed space, enclosing can be easily made byuse of the enclosing member 8, and therefore it is possible tofacilitate production of the element. Further, when the enclosed innerspace 9 is not filled with filler and serves as the enclosed space, itis preferable to provide a desiccant member inside the enclosed space.In this case, even if moisture intrudes into the enclosed space,intruded moisture can be absorbed. For example, to provide the desiccantmember inside the enclosed space, the desiccant member may be attachedto a surface of the enclosing member 8 facing the light emitting stack.

Further, in a case where the enclosed inner space 9 of the enclosedregion between the translucent substrate 1 and the enclosing member 8 isfilled with the filler, even when the enclosing member 8 warps inwardlyin the process of enclosing with the enclosing member 8, it is possibleto prevent contact between the enclosing member 8 and the light emittingstack, for example. Therefore, it is possible to produce the elementmore safely. The filler may be constituted by a curable resincomposition containing desiccant or hygroscopic material. Further, whenthe resin composition is fluid, it is possible to easily fill theenclosed inner space 9 with the filler. The filler may or may not becurable. Further, when the filler contains desiccant or hygroscopicmaterial, even if moisture intrudes inside, such moisture can beabsorbed in the filler, and therefore it is possible to suppressmoisture from reaching the organic light emitting layer 6.

In the organic EL element, voltage is applied between the firstelectrode 5 and the second electrode 7 in order to cause recombinationbetween holes and electrons in the organic light emitting layer 6,thereby light is emitted. Therefore, it is necessary to provide, outsidethe enclosed region, electrode terminals electrically connected to thefirst electrode 5 and the second electrode 7. The electrode terminalsare terminals for making electrical connection with external electrodes.In the implemented embodiment of FIG. 1, end parts of the electricallyconductive layer for forming the first electrode 5 are extended to theperipheral part of the translucent substrate 1 to form extendedelectrodes 16. These extended electrodes 16 serve as the electrodeterminals.

The extended electrodes 16 are positioned on a surface of a peripheralpart of the translucent substrate 1. In the implemented embodiment ofFIG. 1, the extended electrodes 16 are formed on a surface of the HRlayer 3 provided to the translucent substrate 1, and thus are positionedon the surface of the peripheral part of the translucent substrate 1with the HR layer 3 in-between. The extended electrodes 16 areclassified into extended first electrodes 16 a electrically connected tothe first electrode 5 and an extended second electrode 16 b electricallyconnected to the second electrode 7. In the implemented embodiment, eachextended electrode 16 is a part of the electrically conductive layer forforming the first electrode 5 which is extended towards the peripheralpart of the translucent substrate 1 until the part is positioned outsidea region on which the enclosing member 8 is placed. In more detail, theelectrically conductive layer for forming the first electrode 5 includesend parts which are extended outside the enclosed region to bepositioned on the surface of the HR layer 3 so as to serve as theextended first electrodes 16 a. Further, parts separate from theelectrically conductive layer for forming the first electrode 5 areextended outside the enclosed region to be positioned on the surface ofthe HR layer 3 so as to serve as the extended second electrodes 16 b.Each extended second electrode 16 b is in contact with the secondelectrode 7 formed above inside the enclosed region, and therefore eachextended second electrode 16 b and the second electrode 7 areelectrically connected.

Note that, a structure of the extended electrode 16 (a structure forproviding an electrode outside the enclosed region) is not limited tothe structure shown in the implemented embodiment of FIG. 1. Forexample, at least one of the extended first electrode 16 a and theextended second electrode 16 b may be formed by use of an electricallyconductive layer different from the electrically conductive layer forforming the first electrode 5.

In the organic EL element of the present implemented embodiment, the LRlayer 2 and the HR layer 3 are interposed between the moisture-prooflayer 1 a and the first electrode 5 in this order. Further, the unevenstructure 4 is formed in the interface between the LR layer 2 and the HRlayer 3. A laminated structure of the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3defines a light-outcoupling structure. This light-outcoupling structureis a structure which is translucent and allows a large amount of lightemitted by the organic light emitting layer 6 to emerge outside throughthe first electrode 5.

The LR layer 2 is a layer with a low refractive index. The LR layer 2 isalso referred to as a low refractive index layer. The HR layer 3 is alayer with a high refractive index. The HR layer 3 is also referred toas a high refractive index layer.

The phrase that the LR layer 2 has a low refractive index means that theLR layer 2 has a refractive index lower than that of the HR layer 3, andthe phrase that the HR layer 3 has a high refractive index means thatthe HR layer 3 has a refractive index higher than that of the LR layer2. Therefore, the LR layer 2 may have a refractive index which is equalto or higher than a refractive index of the moisture-proof layer 1 a.Alternatively, the LR layer 2 may have a refractive index lower than therefractive index of the moisture-proof layer 1 a. Further, the HR layer3 may have a refractive index which is equal to or lower than arefractive index of the first electrode 5. Alternatively, the HR layer 3may have a refractive index higher than the refractive index of thefirst electrode 5. One example of preferable relations betweenrefractive indices is a relation in which refractive indices increase inthe order of the moisture-proof layer 1 a, the LR layer 2, and the HRlayer 3, the first electrode 5. In this relation, the refractive indicesgradually increase and therefore the light-outcoupling efficiency can beimproved. Further, it is preferable that the refractive index of the LRlayer 2 be equal to or lower than the refractive index of themoisture-proof layer 1 a. In this case, it is possible to more suppresstotal reflection at the interface between the translucent substrate 1and the LR layer 2. In this case, for example, the refractive index ofthe LR layer 2 may be lower than the refractive index of themoisture-proof layer 1 a, and the refractive indices may increase in theorder of the LR layer 2, the HR layer 3, and the first electrode 5.Further, it is preferable that the refractive index of the HR layer 3 beequal to or higher than the refractive index of the first electrode 5.In this case, it is possible to more suppress total reflection at theinterface between the first electrode 5 and the HR layer 3. In thiscase, for example, the refractive index of the LR layer 2 may be lowerthan the refractive index of the moisture-proof layer 1 a, and therefractive index of the HR layer 3 may be higher than the refractiveindex of the first electrode 5.

To improve the light-outcoupling efficiency by reducing total reflectionat interfaces between layers (the interface between the moisture-prooflayer 1 a and the LR layer 2 and the interface between the HR layer 3and the first electrode 5), it is preferable to decrease differencesbetween adjacent layers by making refractive indices of them be close toeach other. Light emitted from the light emitting layer reaches directlythe substrate or reaches the substrate after being reflected. However,when a difference at the interface between the substrate and the lightemitting layer is large, an amount of light emerging outside isdecreased due to total reflection caused by such a large difference. Incontrast, when the light-outcoupling structure with a refractive indexclose to the refractive index of the first electrode 5 is provided as alayer under the first electrode 5 (layer allowing light to emergeoutside), it is possible to obtain an effect similar to an effectobtained when a difference between the refractive indices of the firstelectrode 5 and the light-outcoupling structure is reduced, andtherefore it is possible to improve the light-outcoupling efficiency.Further, when the refractive index of the LR layer 2 as a layer underthe light-outcoupling structure is made to be close to the refractiveindex of the moisture-proof layer 1 a, it is possible to obtain aneffect similar to an effect obtained when a difference between therefractive indices thereof is reduced, and therefore it is possible toimprove the light-outcoupling efficiency. The difference betweenrefractive indices of adjacent layers (the moisture-proof layer 1 a andthe LR layer 2, or the HR layer 3 and the first electrode 5) ispreferably smaller, and for example may be equal to or less than 0.1 orbe equal to or less than 0.3, but is not limited to these examples. Notethat, the uneven structure 4 is provided between the LR layer 2 and theHR layer 3, and the interfaces between the uneven structure 4 and the LRlayer 2 and the HR layer 3 may cause scattering and diffusion of light,and therefore the difference between the refractive indices thereof maybe present to some extent.

A difference between the refractive indices of the LR layer 2 and the HRlayer 3 is not particularly limited, but may be equal to or more than0.1, for example. The refractive index of the LR layer 2 is notparticularly limited, but may be in a range of 1.4 to 1.7. Therefractive index of the HR layer 3 is not particularly limited, but maybe in a range of 1.6 to 2.0.

The refractive index of the moisture-proof layer 1 a is not particularlylimited but may be in a range of 1.4 to 1.6 when the moisture-prooflayer 1 a is made of glass material, for example. Further, therefractive index of the first electrode 5 is not particularly limited,but may be in a range of 1.6 to 2.2. However, a preferable range of therefractive index of the first electrode 5 may vary depending on materialand forming methods. When the first electrode 5 is made of transparentmetal oxide such as ITO, the refractive index of the first electrode 5may be in a range of 1.7 to 2.0. In this case, adjustment of therefractive index is facilitated.

The light-outcoupling structure which is defined by the uneven structure4 provided at the interface between the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3may be a lens array structure. The lens array structure means astructure in which fine protrusions are arranged in plane densely. Eachprotrusion of the lens array structure may have a semispherical shape, afold shape, a pyramid shape (square pyramid shape), or the like. In thepresent implemented embodiment, the HR layer 3 provides a flat surfaceover the LR layer 2. By providing the flat surface, additional layersmay be formed stably on the first electrode 5. Note that, the unevenstructure 4 may be a diffraction structure. In the uneven structure 4,recesses and protrusions are arranged in plane randomly.

Further, a light-outcoupling functional part which is uneven, a lightscattering layer, or the like may be provided to a surface of thetranslucent substrate 1 facing the outside. In this case, thelight-outcoupling functional part is provided to the surface of thetranslucent substrate 1, and therefore the light-outcoupling efficiencycan be improved easily. Further, a surface of the moisture-proof layer 1a facing the LR layer 2 may be uneven. In this case, thelight-outcoupling efficiency can be more improved. However, to stablyform layers, the surface of the moisture-proof layer 1 a is preferablyflat.

The LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 may be made of resin. By using resin,adjustment of the refractive indices can be facilitated and recesses andprotrusions can be easily provided to the interface between the LR layer2 and the HR layer 3. The LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 can be formed byapplying a resin composition, for example. The resin preferably may becurable resin such as thermosetting resin and photocurable resin.Alternatively, the resin may be thermoplastic resin. The resin may beselected from acrylic resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, and the like.

Further, at least one of the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 may be madeof inorganic material. In this case, it is possible to easily form theuneven structure 4. The inorganic material may be selected fromsiloxane, titanoxane, and the like.

Further, at least one of the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 may be aplastic layer. The plastic layer may be provided by attaching a moldedproduct (e.g., a sheet and film) prepared by molding synthetic resin asraw material of plastic and curing it. The plastic layer may be made ofplastic material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) andpolyethylene naphthalate (PEN). Alternatively, the plastic layer may bemade of acrylic resin, epoxy resin, or the like. The forming method ofplastic is not limited particularly but may be an appropriate formingmethod such as calendaring, rolling, and injection molding. In a case ofusing such a plastic layer, a base material of the plastic layer may beflexible preferably. When the base material is flexible, for example, itis possible to attach the plastic layer to the translucent substrate 1by sending the rolled base material continuously, and therefore it ispossible to easily attach the plastic layer. Further, when the basematerial is flexible, it is possible to produce a flexible element. Whena sheet of plastic is used, the plastic layer can be provided byattaching the sheet of plastic. Attaching can be made by means ofthermocompression or adhesive.

The refractive indices of the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 can beadjusted by an appropriate method such as designing material such asresin or inorganic material. For example, the refractive indices of theLR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 can be increased or decreased bydispersing and mixing low refractive index particles or high refractiveindex particles into these layers. The low refractive index particlesmay be exemplified by silica fine particles, for example. Especially, byusing porous silica fine particles, it is possible to obtain a layerwith a refractive index effectively decreased. The high refractive indexparticle may be resin particles of resin with a refractive index higherthan a refractive index of a medium of a layer. The adjustment of therefractive index may be done by adding pores. As a larger number ofpores are added, the refractive index is decreased. Note that, in aprocess of forming pores, if such pores contain oxygen or water, theelement is likely to deteriorate. Hence, it is preferable that suchpores do not contain oxygen or water. For example, it is preferable thatthe pores be filled with inactive gas (e.g., nitrogen).

It is preferable that the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 containparticles with light scattering properties. When they contain particleswith light scattering properties, light entering the LR layer 2 and theHR layer 3 is scattered, and therefore it is possible to increase anamount of light emerging outside. It is preferable that the particleswith light scattering properties be particles which are selected fromthe above low refractive index particles and the high refractive indexparticles and have a function of light scattering. In this case, theadjustment of the refractive index and providing the light scatteringcan be realized by the same particles. Therefore, it is possible toimprove the light-outcoupling efficiency efficiently. According to thelight-outcoupling structure constituted by the LR layer 2 and the HRlayer 3, light is scattered due to reflection at an uneven interface orsurfaces of particles, or reflection or refraction caused by adifference between refractive indices at an interface between differentcomponents, for example.

It is preferable that the light-outcoupling structure constituted by theLR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 extend from the central region on whichthe organic light emitting layer 6 is placed, to the outside of theenclosed region. Further, it is preferable that the uneven structure 4be provide to cover the entire interface between the LR layer 2 and theHR layer 3. When the light-outcoupling structure is present, lightproduced by the organic light emitting layer 6 emerges outside from thetranslucent substrate 1 through the HR layer 3 and the LR layer 2. Inthis regard, if the light-outcoupling structure provided by the LR layer2 and the HR layer 3 has light diffusion properties, light is diffusedand thus some of rays of light travel towards the outer periphery.Diffusion of light at the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 may beeffectively caused by providing the uneven structure 4. If the LR layer2 and the HR layer 3 extend to the position at which the enclosingmember 8 is bonded, or outward from this position, an amount of lighttraveling towards the outer peripheral part is likely to increase, andtherefore light can emerge outside from a region which does not overlapthe light emitting stack. Consequently, it is possible to reduce oreliminate a non-light emitting region at the outer peripheral part andthus to obtain the organic EL element with a high ratio of a lightemitting area in a plane.

The uneven structure 4 between the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 can beformed by stacking the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 so that theinterface therebetween is an uneven face. For example, in a case ofstacking the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 sequentially, recesses andprotrusions are formed in the surface of the LR layer 2 after the LRlayer 2 is placed, or the LR layer 2 is formed so as to have an unevensurface, and thereafter the HR layer 3 is formed. By doing so, it ispossible to easily form the uneven structure 4. Stacking of the LR layer2 and the HR layer 3 can be made by application of resin. In case ofmaking the uneven surface by forming recesses and protrusions, theuneven surface can be made by stamping with a stamper with recesses andprotrusions. The uneven surface can be formed by imprint lithography.For example, photo imprint lithography allows efficient and easyformation of the uneven surface providing high light-outcouplingefficiency.

In a case of providing recesses and protrusions to the surface of theresin layer by use of material contained in the resin, by mixingparticles with a size allowing provision of recesses and protrusions tothe surface, it is possible to form recesses and protrusions derivedfrom the particles. In this case, such particles may be particles foradjusting the refractive index or providing the light scatteringproperties. Alternatively, the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 may bestacked sheets. For example, by attaching sheets which are preliminarilystacked so that the interface between the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3is uneven, to the translucent substrate 1, it is possible to easilyprovide the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 simultaneously. Alternatively,after a sheet serving as the LR layer 2 may be attached, resin for theHR layer 3 may be applied. Alternatively, after resin for forming the LRlayer 2 may be applied, a sheet serving as the HR layer 3 may beattached. In these cases, by use of a sheet with an uneven surface, itis possible to easily form the uneven structure 4.

In a case of forming the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 by application,an application method may be an appropriate method. For example, theapplication method may be spin coating, slit coating, or the like.Further, material may be applied by printing such as gravure printingand screen printing. In a case of printing, it is possible to apply thematerial in a desired pattern.

Further, in the organic EL element of the present implementedembodiment, when a linear expansivity of the moisture-proof layer 1 a isrepresented by α and a linear expansivity of the LR layer 2 isrepresented by β and a linear expansivity of the HR layer 3 isrepresented by γ, the linear expansivities of these layers satisfy arelation of α≦β≦γ. When the linear expansivities (thermal expansivitiesin lengthwise directions) of the layers of interest fulfill the abovecondition, it is possible to suppress occurrence of cracks and the likein the layers of interest and other layers formed thereon. As a result,the organic electroluminescence element with high light emittingperformance and high reliability can be obtained. Note that, the thermalexpansivity in the lengthwise direction may be a linear expansivity inan in-plane direction (direction along a surface of a layer).

In the organic EL element, when thermal stresses in stacked two layersare different, cracks may easily occur. Especially, in the process ofproducing the organic EL element, after the light-outcoupling structureis formed, the electrodes and the organic layers may be formed whilethey have temperatures higher than the temperature of resin. Therefore,such a heating condition may cause cracks. However, in the presentimplemented embodiment, thermal expansivities (linear expansivity) areadjusted to satisfy the aforementioned condition. Therefore, heating inthe process of producing the organic EL element is not likely to causecracks. Consequently, it is possible to produce an element withexcellent electric connectability and high reliability. Further, it ispossible to disperse thermal stresses caused by heat in operation of theorganic EL element, and therefore occurrence of cracks can be reducedand malfunction such as short-circuiting can be suppressed. In thisregard, the LR layer 2 is a layer interposed between the moisture-prooflayer 1 a and the HR layer 3. Therefore, if the LR layer 2 has therelatively high thermal expansivity, it is considered that such a forcethat the LR layer 2 causes strain of the HR layer 3 may occur whenheated, and thus cracks are likely to occur. Hence, it is consideredthat occurrence of cracks can be suppressed by setting the thermalexpansivity of the LR layer 2 to a thermal expansivity between thethermal expansivities of the HR layer 3 and the moisture-proof layer 1a.

The linear expansivity of the moisture-proof layer 1 a is not limitedparticularly, but may be equal to or more than 10 and less than 100 interms of “10⁻⁶×1/° C.”. Further, the linear expansivity of the LR layer2 is not limited particularly, but may be equal to or more than 40 andless than 110 in terms of “10⁻⁶×1/° C.”. Further, the linear expansivityof the HR layer 3 is not limited particularly, but may be equal to ormore than 50 and less than 120 in terms of “10⁻⁶×1/° C.”.

Differences between the linear expansivities of the layers arepreferably smaller. Therefore, ideally, it is preferable that therelation of α=β=γ be satisfied. Even if this relation is not satisfied,it is preferable that the relation of α<β=γ or the relation of α=β<γ besatisfied. However, actually, the layers may be made of differentmaterials, or even when the layers may be made of the same material, thelayers are provided as a laminated structure and therefore the thermalexpansivities of the stacked layers may differ from each other normally.In consideration of the above circumstances, to satisfy the relation ofα<β<γ is practical and preferable. However, the LR layer 2 and the HRlayer 3 can be made of similar materials and stacked in similar manners,and therefore the refractive indices of them can be easily adjusted tothe same value. Consequently, to satisfy the relation of α<β≦γ is alsopractical and preferable.

The differences between the linear expansivities of the layers arepreferably smaller. In more detail, the differences between the linearexpansivities can be set as follows. First, the difference between thelinear expansivities of the moisture-proof layer 1 a and the HR layer 3is not limited particularly but may be equal to or more than 5 and lessthan 100 in terms of “10⁻⁶×1/° C.”. Further, the difference between thelinear expansivities of the moisture-proof layer 1 a and the LR layer 2is not limited particularly but may be equal to or more than 3 and lessthan 80 in terms of “10⁻⁶×1/° C.”. Further, the difference between thelinear expansivities of the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 is not limitedparticularly but may be equal to or more than 0 and less than 50 interms of “10⁻⁶×1/° C.”. The linear expansivity can be measured with ageneral-purpose measurement device such as TMA.

Adjustment of the linear expansivities is not limited particularly butmay be done by an appropriate method. For example, in case where themoisture-proof layer in is made of glass, the linear expansivities ofthe LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 are adjusted based on the linearexpansivity of this glass. In case where the LR layer 2 and the HR layer3 are made of resin materials, the linear expansivities thereof can beadjusted by selecting the resin materials and/or additives. Generally,the linear expansivity tends to decrease with an increase in the numberof particles added. This is because particles are smaller in theexpansivity than the resin in many cases. Especially, it is possible todecrease the expansivity by adding inorganic material such as inorganicparticles and inorganic filler. Thus, for example, by adjusting acontent of particles of the LR layer 2 to be larger than a content ofparticles of the HR layer 3, there is a possibility that the linearexpansivity of the LR layer 2 is smaller than the linear expansivity ofthe HR layer 3.

In the organic EL element of the implemented embodiment of FIG. 1, theauxiliary electrode 10 having a mesh-like shape is provided to thesurface of the first electrode 5. By providing the auxiliary electrode10, it is possible to increase electric conductivity, and therefore itis possible to obtain the organic EL element with improved currentdistribution in the light emitting surface and more uniformed lightemission in the plane. In this regard, the first electrode 5 is made ofluminescent material (e.g., transparent metal oxide) and thereforenormally has a relatively high specific resistance and thus shows poorelectric conductivity. In view of this, by making an electrode wire ofmaterial higher in electric conductivity than the first electrode 5 andforming the auxiliary electrode 10 by use of the electrode wire, it ispossible to compensate shortage of electric conductive properties of thefirst electrode 5 and improve the electric conductivity as a whole.Further, the auxiliary electrode 10 is formed on the surface of thefirst electrode 5. As described above, when the auxiliary electrode 10is present, the auxiliary electrode 10 presses the HR layer 3 and the LRlayer 2 with the first electrode 5 in-between, and therefore thermalexpansion can be suppressed when heated, and consequently, occurrence ofcracks can be more suppressed.

As shown in FIG. 2, in the present implemented embodiment, the auxiliaryelectrode 10 has a lattice shape. Such an auxiliary electrode 10 isreferred to as a grid electrode. The auxiliary electrode 10 with alattice shape can provide uniformed current distribution. This auxiliaryelectrode 10 with a lattice shape is constituted by straight wires whichextend in a horizontal direction and a vertical direction and arearranged at regular intervals. In the implemented embodiment of FIG. 2,the five wires in the vertical direction and the five wires in thehorizontal direction form a mesh with sixteen square openings. Notethat, the number of wires is not limited to the above example, but eachof the number of wires in the vertical direction and the number of wiresin the horizontal direction may be an appropriate number in a range of 3to 10.

The auxiliary electrode 10 is a layer made of electrode material. Theauxiliary electrode 10 need not be transparent. The auxiliary electrode10 may be made of electrically conductive metal material, for example.The electrically conductive metal material may be exemplified by copper,silver, gold, aluminum, nickel, and molybdenum. One of preferablematerials of the auxiliary electrode 10 is amolybdenum/aluminum/molybdenum laminate (Mo/Al/Mo) which is so-calledMAM. By use of MAM, it is possible to efficiently assist the electricconductive properties of the first electrode 5 and improve the electricconductivity as a whole. When the auxiliary electrode 10 is formed intoa mesh shape, it is possible to allow light to emerge from thetranslucent substrate 1 by passing through intervals (openings) of theauxiliary electrode 10.

Normally, the auxiliary electrode 10 is not transparent. Therefore, theauxiliary electrode 10 does not allow light to pass, and therefore anon-light emitting region with a similar shape to the auxiliaryelectrode 10 may be formed. However, in the present implementedembodiment, light is diffused by the uneven structure 4 between the LRlayer 2 and the HR layer 3, and therefore it is possible to diffuselight to a non-light emitting region formed by the auxiliary electrode10. Consequently, the non-light emitting region can disappear or be madeto not be perceived, and thus it is possible to realize more naturallight emission.

Further, in the present implemented embodiment, an insulating film 11 ison a side of the auxiliary electrode 10 close to the organic lightemitting layer 6. When the insulating film 11 is provided to the surfaceof the auxiliary electrode 10 in the aforementioned manner, theinsulating film 11 presses the HR layer 3 and the LR layer 2 with thefirst electrode 5 in-between, and therefore thermal expansion can besuppressed when heated, and consequently, occurrence of cracks can bemore suppressed. Further, the auxiliary electrode 10 exists as aprotrusion on the surface of the first electrode 5. When the organiclight emitting layer 6 and the second electrode 7 are directly formed onthis surface, these layers may become discontinuous or thin, andconsequently short-circuiting may easily occur. However, in theimplemented embodiment of FIG. 1, the auxiliary electrode 10 iselectrically insulated by the insulating film 11. Even when the secondelectrode 7 is formed on the auxiliary electrode 10, the insulating film11 prevents direct contact between the auxiliary electrode 10 and thesecond electrode 7, and therefore short-circuiting between the auxiliaryelectrode 10 and the second electrode 7 can be prevented.

Normally, the auxiliary electrode 10 is not transparent. Therefore, aregion on which the auxiliary electrode 10 is formed does not allowlight to emerge. Hence, light emission at this region leads to loss oflight emission, and thus the light emitting efficiency is likely todecrease. However, in the present implemented embodiment, the insulatingfilm 11 is provided, and therefore light emission does not occur at theregion on which the auxiliary electrode 10 is formed and a large amountof current is supplied to regions (corresponding to the openings of themesh) which do not overlap the auxiliary electrode 10 but allow light toemerge. Consequently, it is possible to reduce light emission loss andimprove the light emitting efficiency. Further, by providing theinsulating film 11, it is possible to suppress excess light emission atthe region covered with the auxiliary electrode 10.

Further, in the present implemented embodiment, a part of the auxiliaryelectrode 10 which is not in contact with the first electrode 5 iscovered with the insulating film 11. In other words, the insulating film11 is formed on the auxiliary electrode 10 so as to cover the auxiliaryelectrode 10, and therefore the surface as well as the sides of theauxiliary electrode 10 are covered with the insulating film 11. When theauxiliary electrode 10 is covered with the insulating film 11 in theaforementioned manner, it is possible to suppress discontinuation orbreakage of the layer and to ensure the insulating properties. Hence,short-circuiting can be more suppressed. Further, it is possible tosupply more current to regions which do not overlap the auxiliaryelectrode 10 but allow light to easily emerge, and thus the lightemitting efficiency can be more improved. Further, the insulating film11 is in contact with the surface of the first electrode 5, andtherefore the HR layer 3 and the LR layer 2 can be more pressed by theinsulating film 11 with the first electrode 5 in-between. Consequently,thermal expansion can be suppressed when heated, and occurrence ofcracks can be more suppressed. It is preferable that the side faces ofthe insulating film 11 be inclined. In this case, it is possible to moresuppress discontinuation of the layer.

In this regard, in the organic EL element of the present implementedembodiment, the HR layer 3 extends to the peripheral part and outsidethe enclosed region and thus is exposed outside. When the HR layer 3 ishigh moisture permeable, moisture may easily intrude inside through theHR layer 3. The exposed part of the HR layer 3 may be positioned at aregion exposed by dividing the electrically conductive layer for formingthe extended electrode 16 or a region on the peripheral part of thesubstrate. In view of this, it is preferable that a moisture-proof filmcovering the HR layer 3 be formed at the exposed part of the HR layer 3.This is because it is possible to suppress intrusion of moisture intothe inside through the HR layer 3. Similarly, when the LR layer 2 has anexposed part, it is preferable that a moisture-proof film be formed tocover the LR layer 2. For example, the moisture-proof film may be formedon the side face of the translucent substrate 1 or the like. Themoisture-proof film may be made of inorganic material, for example. Theinorganic material may be exemplified by silica, for example.

In the implemented embodiment of FIG. 1, the auxiliary electrode 10 isformed as a layer above the first electrode 5. However, the auxiliaryelectrode 10 may be formed as a layer under the first electrode 5. Inthis case, the auxiliary electrode 10 is in contact with the firstelectrode 5, and therefore the auxiliary electrode 10 can increase anamount of current flowing through the first electrode 5. In this case,to suppress light emission at the region covered with the auxiliaryelectrode 10, it is preferable that the insulating film 11 is situatedbetween the first electrode 5 and the second electrode 7 to overlap theauxiliary electrode 10.

FIG. 1 illustrates the implemented embodiment including the auxiliaryelectrode 10 and the insulating film 11. However, the organic EL elementmay be devoid of the auxiliary electrode 10 and the insulating film 11.Also in this case, the linear expansivities are set as described above,and thus occurrence of cracks can be suppressed.

FIG. 3 shows an example of the embodiment of the organic EL element, andcomponents thereof same as those of the implemented embodiment of FIG. 1are designated by the same reference signs and explanations thereof areomitted.

The organic EL element of FIG. 3 includes a translucent substrate 1, afirst electrode 5 with light transmissive properties, an organic lightemitting layer 6, and a second electrode 7, and the first electrode 5,the organic light emitting layer 6, and the second electrode 7 arestacked on the translucent substrate 1 in this order, as with theimplemented embodiment of FIG. 1. The translucent substrate 1 includes amoisture-proof layer 1 a facing the first electrode 5. The organic ELelement includes a LR layer 2 and a HR layer 3 having a refractive indexhigher than a refractive index of the LR layer 2 which are situatedbetween the moisture-proof layer 1 a and the first electrode 5 in thisorder from the moisture-proof layer 1 a. The organic EL element includesan uneven structure 4 provided at an interface between the LR layer 2and the HR layer 3. As described above, the LR layer 2 which is a layerwith a low refractive index is placed adjacent to the translucentsubstrate 1, and the HR layer 3 which is a layer with a high refractiveindex is placed adjacent to the first electrode 5, and therefore adifference between refractive indices is reduced and thus totalreflection is suppressed, and consequently it is possible to increase anamount of light emerging outside. Further, the uneven structure 4 isprovided at the interface between the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3, andtherefore light is scattered by this uneven structure 4, andconsequently it is possible to reduce total reflection loss and thus tomore improve the light-outcoupling efficiency.

Further, also in the organic EL element of the present implementedembodiment, when a linear expansivity of the moisture-proof layer 1 a isrepresented by α and a linear expansivity of the LR layer 2 isrepresented by β and a linear expansivity of the HR layer 3 isrepresented by γ, the linear expansivities of these layers satisfy arelation of α≦β≦γ. When the linear expansivities (thermal expansivitiesin lengthwise directions) of these layers fulfill the above condition,it is possible to suppress occurrence of cracks in these layers andother layers above these layers. As a result, the organicelectroluminescence element with high light emitting performance andhigh reliability can be obtained.

Hereinafter, it is assumed that FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the organicEL element of the implemented embodiment of FIG. 3 (i.e., arepresentation when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the surfaceof the translucent substrate 1). In view of this, FIG. 3 shows a sectionalong line (i)-(i) in FIG. 2. Further, broken lines represent anauxiliary wire 13 which is not exposed.

In a preferable implemented embodiment, the organic EL element furtherincludes a groove region 12 dividing at least the HR layer 3. When thegroove region 12 dividing the HR layer 3 is present, the layer has beendivided, and therefore thermal expansion caused by heat is relieved bythe groove region 12, and stress caused by thermal expansion can bereduced. Consequently, cracks are suppressed from occurring, and thusthe element with high reliability can be obtained. The groove region 12is formed in the laminated structure including the LR layer 2 and the HRlayer 3. The groove region 12 is provided to divide at least the HRlayer 3. When the HR layer 3 has been divided, the thermal expansion ofthe HR layer 3 can be relieved by the groove region 12.

The groove region 12 may be formed by an appropriate method. Forexample, the groove region 12 may be formed, in a process of forming theLR layer 2 and the HR layer 3, by patterning the desired layer.Alternatively, for example, the groove region 12 may be formed byforming the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 without the groove region 12and thereafter removing a part to form the groove region 12 by at leastone of a physical method and a chemical method. Alternatively, forexample, the groove region 12 may be formed by exerting stress on the LRlayer 2 and the HR layer 3 to cause at least one crack, and in this casethe at least one crack may serve as the groove region 12.

The groove region 12 may be constituted by a plurality of straightgrooves. For example, the groove region 12 is constituted by groovesextending in a horizontal direction and grooves extending in a verticaldirection. As a whole, the groove region 12 may have a mesh-like shape,a grid-shape, or a lattice shape. When the auxiliary wire 13 is present,the groove region 12 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of theauxiliary wire 13.

It is preferable that a width of the groove region 12 is smaller.Consequently, the larger area of the light-outcoupling structure can beensured. The width of the groove region 12 is defined as a width of oneof the grooves constituting the groove region 12 (a dimension of agroove in a direction perpendicular to a dimension in which the grooveextends in a plan view). The width of the groove region 12 is preferablyequal to or less than 100 μm. The width of the groove region 12 is morepreferably equal to or less than 10 μm. The lower limit of the width ofthe groove region 12 is not limited particularly but the width of thegroove region 12 may be equal to or more than 0.1 μm, for example. It ispreferable that an interval of the groove region 12 which means adistance between adjacent grooves of the groove region 12 be larger.Consequently, the larger area of the light-outcoupling structure can beensured. The interval of the groove region 12 is preferably equal to ormore than 1 mm. The interval of the groove region 12 is more preferablyequal to or more than 2 mm. The upper limit of the interval of thegroove region 12 is not limited particularly but the interval of thegroove region 12 may be equal to or less than 10 mm, for example. Notethat, preferable values of the width of the groove region 12 and theinterval of the groove region 12 may vary depending on the material andthe processing method of the light-outcoupling structure, and thereforeare not limited to aforementioned ranges.

It is preferable that the groove region 12 divide both the LR layer 2and the HR layer 3. In the present implemented embodiment, the grooveregion 12 divides not only the HR layer 3 but also the LR layer 2. Inother words, the groove region 12 cuts the HR layer 3 in a thicknessdirection of the HR layer 3 to divide the HR layer 3 in a directionalong the surface of the HR layer 3, and also cuts the LR layer 2 in athickness direction of the LR layer 2 to divide the LR layer 2 in adirection along the surface of the LR layer 2. A bottom of the grooveregion 12 reaches the surface of the translucent substrate 1 (themoisture-proof layer 1 a). When such a groove region 12 is present, thetwo layers are each divided, and therefore thermal expansion caused byheat is relieved by the groove region 12, and thus stress caused by thethermal expansion can be reduced. Consequently, cracks can be suppressedfrom occurring and it is possible to obtain the element with highreliability. Further, provision of the groove region 12 allowssuppressing defect caused by cracks, producing a large size elementwhich is likely to be cracked, and producing a flexible element.

It is preferable that the groove region 12 become smaller in widthtoward its bottom than at its top. In this case, side faces of thegroove region 12 are inclined faces which are inclined relative to thesurface of the translucent substrate 1, and therefore the side faces ofthe groove region 12 do not face each other in parallel. The width ofthe groove region 12 at its opening is larger than that at its bottom.Therefore, when the layer expands by heat, it is possible to relievestress at the peripheral parts where stress tends to concentrate, andthus it is possible to suppress cracks from occurring due to heat.Further, even if thermal expansion causes such deformation of narrowingthe grooves of the groove region 12, the groove region 12 becomessmaller in width toward its bottom than at its top and therefore stresscaused by heat can be relieved and deformation can be suppressed.Consequently, it is possible to suppress cracks from occurring. Notethat, in a case where the side face of the groove region 12 isperpendicular to the surface of the translucent substrate 1, a steppedpart exists. In this case, when the layer is formed, the layer may bedivided at this stepped part, and this may lead to a decrease in thereliability of connection. However, when the groove region 12 becomessmaller in width toward its bottom than at its top and thus the sidefaces of the groove region 12 are inclined faces which are inclinedrelative to the surface of the translucent substrate 1, discontinuationof the layer at the stepped part can be suppressed and the reliabilityof connection can be improved. The groove region 12 with such a shapecan be called a groove with a fillet shape. Note that, at a periphery ofthe opening of the groove region 12 (i.e., a border between the surfaceand the side face), corners of the HR layer 3 may be rounded to havecurved surfaces. In this case, angled parts are cut away and thusdiscontinuation of the layer can be more suppressed.

In the present implemented embodiment, the auxiliary wire 13 is providedinside the groove region 12. The material and shape of the auxiliarywire 13 may be the same as those of the auxiliary electrode 10 of theimplemented embodiment of FIG. 1. In short, the auxiliary wire 13 may bea grid wire. By providing the auxiliary wire 13, it is possible toincrease electric conductivity, and therefore it is possible to obtainthe organic EL element with improved current distribution in the lightemitting surface and more uniformed light emission in the plane. Thefirst electrode 5 is made of luminescent material (e.g., transparentmetal oxide) and therefore normally has a relatively high specificresistance and thus shows poor electric conductivity. In view of this,by making a wire of material higher in electric conductivity than thefirst electrode 5 and forming the auxiliary wire 13 by use of this wire,it is possible to compensate shortage of electric conductive propertiesof the first electrode 5 and improve the electric conductivity as awhole. To increase an amount of current flowing through the firstelectrode 5, the auxiliary wire 13 is situated in contact with the firstelectrode 5. Further, the auxiliary wire 13 is situated inside thegroove region 12. As described above, the auxiliary wire 13 is providedto the groove region 12. It is possible to provide the auxiliary wire 13by use of the groove region 12 set back from the surface of thetranslucent substrate 1, and therefore the auxiliary wire 13 can beprovided efficiently. Further, when the groove region 12 is present, thegrooves thereof may cause division of the first electrode 5 and anincrease in a distance between electrodes, and therefore power supplymay become unstable. By providing the auxiliary wire 13 to the grooveregion 12, it is possible to situate the first electrode 5 on theauxiliary wire 13. Hence, it is possible to obtain the element enablingstable power supply.

Generally, an increase in the area of the light emitting surface mayincrease a possibility of shortage of power supply to the center or nearcenter of the light emitting surface. This is because the electrodelayer with translucent properties has a relatively high resistance.However, provision of the auxiliary wire 13 can allow stable powersupply to the center or near center of the light emitting surface.Therefore, it is possible to easily increase the area of the lightemitting element. This advantageous effect can be also obtained by theauxiliary electrode 10.

As shown in FIG. 3, the auxiliary wire 13 is situated on the bottom ofthe groove region 12, and thus is in contact with the surface of thetranslucent substrate 1 (the moisture-proof layer 1 a). As describedabove, when the auxiliary wire 13 is situated on the bottom of thegroove region 12, it is possible to provide the auxiliary wire 13 moreefficiently.

As shown in FIG. 2, the auxiliary wire 13 may have a mesh-like shape,and more preferably have a lattice shape. The auxiliary wire 13 with alattice shape can provide uniformed current distribution. This auxiliarywire 13 with a lattice shape is constituted by straight wires whichextend in a horizontal direction and a vertical direction and arearranged at regular intervals. The mesh pattern may be similar to thatdescribed with regard to the implemented embodiment of FIG. 1.

The auxiliary wire 13 is a layer made of electrode material. Theauxiliary wire 13 need not be transparent. The auxiliary wire 13 may bemade of electrically conductive metal material, for example. Theelectrically conductive metal material may be exemplified by copper,silver, gold, aluminum, nickel, and molybdenum. MAM may be preferable asmaterial of the auxiliary wire 13. By use of Mo/Al/Mo, it is possible toefficiently assist the electric conductive properties of the firstelectrode 5 and improve the electric conductivity as a whole. When theauxiliary wire 13 is formed into a mesh shape, it is possible to allowlight to emerge from the translucent substrate 1 by passing throughintervals (openings) of the auxiliary wire 13.

Further, it is preferable that the thickness of the auxiliary wire 13 beequal to or less than a depth of the groove region 12. When thethickness of the auxiliary wire 13 is more than the depth of the grooveregion 12, the auxiliary wire 13 protrudes outside from the opening ofthe groove region 12, and therefore it may be difficult to performstable film formation. Further, when the auxiliary wire 13 is formed sothat the groove region 12 is filled with the auxiliary wire 13 entirelyand the auxiliary wire 13 protrudes from the groove region 12, itbecomes difficult to relieve stress, and cracks may not be suppressedeffectively from occurring. In contrast, when the thickness of theauxiliary wire 13 is equal to or less than a depth of the groove region12, the electric reliability can be maintained and cracks can beefficiently suppressed from occurring.

When the groove region 12 is a groove dividing both the HR layer 3 andthe LR layer 2, the auxiliary wire 13 may have a thickness equal to orless than the thickness of the LR layer 2. When the thickness of theauxiliary wire 13 becomes smaller, discontinuation of the layer can besuppressed and stress caused by thermal expansion can be relieved. Notethat, in this regard, the thickness of the LR layer 2 may mean anaverage thickness. Further, the thickness of the auxiliary wire 13 maybe smaller than a thickness of the thinnest part of the LR layer 2.

In the present implemented embodiment, it is preferable that aninsulating part 14 is provided inside the groove region 12 so as to becloser to the second electrode 7 than the auxiliary wire 13 is. Thegroove region 12 is formed so as to divide at least one of the HR layer3 and the LR layer 2. Hence, when the first electrode 5, the organiclight emitting layer 6 and the second electrode 7 are stacked directlyinside the groove region 12, these layers may become discontinuous orthin, and consequently short-circuiting may easily occur. However, in acase where the insulating part 14 is provided on a side of the auxiliarywire 13 facing the second electrode 7, the groove region 12 is filledwith the insulating part 14, and therefore it is possible to suppressdiscontinuation of the layers. Further, the auxiliary wire 13 iselectrically insulated by the insulating part 14. Even when the secondelectrode 7 is formed on the auxiliary wire 13, the insulating part 14prevents direct contact between the auxiliary wire 13 and the secondelectrode 7, and therefore short-circuiting between the auxiliary wire13 and the second electrode 7 can be prevented. Normally, the auxiliarywire 13 is not transparent. Therefore, a region on which the auxiliarywire 13 is formed does not allow light to emerge. Hence, light emissionat this region leads to loss of light emission, and thus the lightemitting efficiency is likely to decrease. However, in the presentimplemented embodiment, the insulating part 14 is provided, andtherefore light emission does not occur at the region on which theauxiliary wire 13 is formed and a large amount of current is supplied toregions (corresponding to the openings of the mesh) which do not overlapthe auxiliary wire 13 but allow light to emerge. Consequently, it ispossible to reduce light emission loss and improve the light emittingefficiency. Further, by providing the insulating part 14, it is possibleto suppress excess light emission at the region covered with theauxiliary wire 13.

It is preferable that the insulating part 14 be provided to fill up thegroove region 12. When the groove region 12 is filled with theinsulating part 14, it is possible to form layers stably. Especially,when the groove region 12 is filled with the insulating part 14 so thatthe surface of the first electrode 5 before the organic light emittinglayer 6 is formed is not uneven but is flat, it is possible to stablyform the organic light emitting layer 6, and therefore to obtain theelement with high reliability.

The insulating part 14 is situated above the first electrode 5.Therefore, it is possible to ensure electric conduction between thefirst electrode 5 and the auxiliary wire 13. Note that, a place wherethe insulating part 14 is situated is not limited to the above example,but the insulating part 14 may be situated between the organic lightemitting layer 6 and the second electrode 7.

In the implemented embodiment of FIG. 3, the auxiliary wire 13 is formedas a layer under the first electrode 5. However, the auxiliary wire 13may be formed as a layer above the first electrode 5. In this case, theauxiliary wire 13 is in contact with the first electrode 5, andtherefore the auxiliary wire 13 can increase an amount of currentflowing through the first electrode 5.

FIG. 4 shows another example of the implemented embodiment of theorganic EL element, and components thereof same as those of the aboveimplemented embodiment are designated by the same reference signs andexplanations thereof are omitted. The present implemented embodiment isdifferent from the implemented embodiment of FIG. 3 in that aninsulating layer 15 is situated between the moisture-proof layer 1 a andthe LR layer 2, but the other components are the same as those of FIG.3.

In the implemented embodiment of FIG. 4, the insulating layer 15 isprovided, and therefore stress caused by thermal expansion can be morerelieved. The groove region 12 divides the HR layer 3, the LR layer 2and the insulating layer 15, and the auxiliary wire 13 is situated asthe bottom of the groove region 12 to be on the surface of themoisture-proof layer 1 a. It is preferable that the auxiliary wire 13 bethinner than the insulating layer 15. As thinner the auxiliary wire 13becomes, the more discontinuation of layers can be suppressed.

In the organic EL element of the present implemented embodiment, when alinear expansivity of the moisture-proof layer 1 a is represented by αand a linear expansivity of the insulating layer 15 is represented by σand a linear expansivity of the LR layer 2 is represented by β and alinear expansivity of the HR layer 3 is represented by γ, it ispreferable that the linear expansivities of these layers satisfy arelation of α≦σ≦β≦γ. When the linear expansivities (thermalexpansivities in lengthwise directions) of these layers fulfill theabove condition, it is possible to suppress occurrence of cracks inthese layers and other layers above these layers. As a result; theorganic electroluminescence element with high light emitting performanceand high reliability can be obtained.

The insulating layer 15 may be made of resin material or inorganicmaterial. In a case of using resin, such resin may be the same as resinused for the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3. In a case of using inorganicmaterial, such inorganic material may be silica-based inorganic materialor the like. A refractive index of the insulating layer 15 is notlimited particularly. However, in order to improve the light-outcouplingefficiency, the refractive index of the insulating layer 15 may bebetween refractive indices of the moisture-proof layer 1 a and the LRlayer 2, for example.

FIGS. 3 and 4 each illustrate the implemented embodiment including theauxiliary wire 13 and the insulating part 14. However, the organic ELelement may be devoid of the auxiliary wire 13 and the insulating part14. Also in this case, the linear expansivities are set as describedabove, and thus occurrence of cracks can be suppressed. Further, thegroove region 12 is provided, and therefore stress caused by expansiondue to heating can be relieved and thus effects of suppressingoccurrence of cracks can be improved more.

Note that, it is possible to produce the organic EL element in which theauxiliary electrode 10 is situated on the surface of the first electrode5 and the auxiliary wire 13 is situated inside the groove region 12.

Hereinafter, methods of producing the organic EL element are described.FIGS. 5(a) to 5(g) illustrate an example of a process of producing theorganic EL element of the implemented embodiment of FIG. 1.

In the process of producing the organic EL element, first, as shown inFIG. 5(a), the translucent substrate 1 including the moisture-prooflayer 1 a is prepared. Next, as shown in FIG. 5(b), the LR layer 2 isformed on the surface of the moisture-proof layer 1 a. Formation of theLR layer 2 may be done by applying material (resin material or inorganicmaterial) for forming the LR layer 2. For example, such application canbe done by spin coating, slit coating, printing, or the like.Alternatively, the LR layer 2 may be formed by disposition.Subsequently, the surface of the LR layer 2 is made to be an unevensurface. The uneven surface may be formed by imprint lithography. By useof photo imprint lithography, it is possible to easily form recesses andprotrusions. Alternatively, such recesses and protrusions may be madewith a stamper with recesses and protrusions. Alternatively, lightscattering fine particles may be dispersed to form recesses andprotrusions derived from such fine particles. In this regard, thematerial of the LR layer 2 is higher in linear expansivity than themoisture-proof layer 1 a.

Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 5(c), the HR layer 3 is formed on thesurface (uneven surface) of the LR layer 2. Formation of the HR layer 3may be done by applying material (resin material or inorganic material)for forming the HR layer 3. For example, such application can be done byspin coating, slit coating, printing, or the like. As a result offorming the HR layer 3, the uneven structure 4 is present at theinterface between the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3. Note that, the LRlayer 2 and the HR layer 3 may be provided by use of a plastic sheet.For example, by attaching a plastic sheet in which the LR layer 2 andthe HR layer 3 are stacked, it is possible to situate the LR layer 2 andthe HR layer 3 on the surface of the translucent substrate 1simultaneously. Alternatively, after a sheet serving as the LR layer 2may be attached, the HR layer 3 may be formed by application.Alternatively, after the LR layer 2 may be formed by application, asheet serving as the HR layer 3 may be attached. In these cases, theuneven structure 4 may be formed by use of a sheet with an unevensurface. In this regard, the material of the HR layer 3 is higher inlinear expansivity than the LR layer 2.

Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 5(d), the first electrode 5 is formed onthe surface of the HR layer 3 and the auxiliary electrode 10 is formedon the first electrode 5. Formation of the first electrode 5 and theauxiliary electrode 10 may be done by deposition, sputtering, coating,or the like. In a case of deposition, it is possible to easily formelectrode layers with high electric conductivity. In the formation ofthe first electrode 5 and the auxiliary electrode 10, layers thereforare patterned. In more detail, the layer for the first electrode 5 ispatterned in order to provide the extended electrodes 16 on theperipheral part of the substrate. Further, the layer for the auxiliaryelectrode 10 is patterned in order to obtain an electrode with amesh-like shape. Formation of such patterned layers may be done bydeposition with masks, or patterning by etching layers formed on theentire surface. Note that, the auxiliary electrode 10 may be provided byattaching an electric conductive molded product with a mesh-like shape.

After that, as shown in FIG. 5(e), the insulating film 11 is formed onthe auxiliary electrode 10 to cover the auxiliary electrode 10.Formation of the insulating film 11 may be done by applying material forforming the insulating film 11. For example, such application can bedone by spin coating, slit coating, printing, or the like. In a case ofusing thermosetting material, the insulating film 11 is formed bythermally curing the thermosetting material by heat.

Next, as shown in FIG. 5(f), the organic light emitting layer 6 and thesecond electrode 7 are stacked sequentially. The organic light emittinglayer 6 may be formed by sequentially stacking layers constituting theorganic light emitting layer 6 by deposition or coating. The secondelectrode 7 may be formed by deposition, sputtering, coating, or thelike. In the process of stacking the organic light emitting layer 6 andthe second electrode 7, the organic light emitting layer 6 and thesecond electrode 7 are extended outside from the first electrode 5 to aplace where the extended second electrode 16 b is provided, so as toelectrically connect an extended part of the second electrode 7 to theextended second electrode 16 b. By doing so, it is possible toelectrically interconnect the electrodes without causing short-circuit.

In the processes of forming the first electrode 5, the auxiliaryelectrode 10, the insulating film 11, the organic light emitting layer 6and the second electrode 7, they may be heated in disposition or thelike in some cases. Further, with regard to application, heatedcompositions may be applied, or heating may be conducted in order tothermally curing. For example, a temperature for heating may be equal toor more than 100° C. and equal to or less than 200° C. In this regard,when the linear expansivities does not satisfy a relation of α≦β≦γ andfor example the linear expansivities satisfy a relation of α<γ<β or thelike, there are considerable differences between expansivities, andtherefore at least one of the HR layer 3 and the LR layer 2 are likelyto be easily cracked when heated. However, in the present implementedembodiment, the linear expansivities of the moisture-proof layer 1 a,the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 satisfy the relation of α≦β≦γ. Hence,even if heating is conducted in a process of stacking the layers,occurrence of cracks can be suppressed.

Finally, as shown in FIG. 5(g), the enclosing member 8 is bonded to thetranslucent substrate 1 so that the enclosing member 8 encloses alaminate (the light emitting stack) including the organic light emittinglayer 6. In enclosing by the enclosing member 8, adhesive for enclosingis provided on the surface (may include part of the surface of the HRlayer 3) of the extended electrode 16 at the outer peripheral part ofthe translucent substrate 1 so as to surround the outer periphery of thelight emitting stack. Thereafter, the enclosing member 8 is made closerto the surface of the translucent substrate 1 facing the light emittingstack, and the translucent substrate 1 and the enclosing member 8 arebonded with the adhesive to enclose the light emitting stack.

By performing the above process, it is possible to obtain the organic ELelement of the implemented embodiment of FIG. 1. According to the methodof producing shown in FIGS. 5(a) to 5(g), the linear expansivities ofthe stacked layers are adjusted, and therefore cracks can be suppressedfrom occurring. Further, the auxiliary electrode 10 is formed and thisauxiliary electrode 10 is covered with the insulating film 11, andtherefore current distribution can be improved, and consequently it ispossible to obtain the organic EL element with uniform light emission inplane. Note that, when the auxiliary electrode 10 and the insulatingfilm 11 are unnecessary, processes of forming them may be omitted fromthe process shown in FIGS. 5(a) to 5(g).

FIGS. 6(a) to 6(g) illustrate an example of a process of producing theorganic EL element of the implemented embodiment of FIG. 3.

In the process of producing the organic EL element, first, as shown inFIG. 6(a), the translucent substrate 1 including the moisture-prooflayer 1 a is prepared. Next, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the auxiliary wire13 is formed on the surface of the translucent substrate 1. Theauxiliary wire 13 may be formed by the same method as the auxiliaryelectrode 10 of the implemented embodiment of FIGS. 5(a) to 5(g).

Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 6(c), the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 areformed on parts of the surface of the moisture-proof layer 1 a which arenot covered with the auxiliary wire 13. The LR layer 2 and the HR layer3 may be stacked by the same method as the implemented embodiment ofFIGS. 5(a) to 5(g). However, to form the groove region 12, materials onthe LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 are applied in such patterns that theauxiliary wire 13 is not covered with the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3.Application of materials in such patterns may be done by spin coating,slit coating, or the like with masks. To form the side faces of thegroove region 12 as inclined faces, layers are stacked to have inclinedfaces, or edge parts of stacked layers are cut away to form inclinedsurface. Alternatively, the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 may be formedon the surface of the translucent substrate 1, and thereafter the LRlayer 2 and the HR layer 3 may be partially removed by irradiation witha laser to form the groove region 12, and the auxiliary wire 13 may beformed inside this groove region 12. Also in this case, as shown in FIG.6(c), it is possible to obtain the implemented embodiment in which thegroove region 12 is formed as a result of division of the LR layer 2 andthe HR layer 3 and the auxiliary wire 13 is formed inside the grooveregion 12. Note that, in a case of irradiation with a laser, it ispossible to make the side faces of the groove region 12 be inclinedfaces by adjusting an angle of a laser beam, and thus the inclined facescan be easily formed.

Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 6(d), the first electrode 5 is formed.Formation of the first electrode 5 may be done by deposition,sputtering, coating, or the like. In this process, parts of the firstelectrode 5 are formed inside the groove region 12 so that the firstelectrode 5 is in contact with the auxiliary wire 13 to make connectiontherebetween. By doing so, electric conduction between the firstelectrode 5 and the auxiliary wire 13 is made, and it is possible toenhance assistance of electric conduction.

After that, as shown in FIG. 6(e), insulating material is deposited overthe auxiliary wire 13 to fill up the groove region 12 by coating,deposition, or the like, so as to form the insulating part 14. It ispreferable that the insulating part 14 be formed so that the grooveregion 12 is filled and the surface of the insulating part 14 is flushwith the surface of the first electrode 5 to give a flat surface. Inthis case, it is possible to stably form layers on the insulating part14 and the first electrode 5.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6(f), the organic light emitting layer 6 and thesecond electrode 7 are stacked sequentially, and thereafter, as shown inFIG. 6(g), the enclosing member 8 is bonded to the translucent substrate1 so that the enclosing member 8 encloses the laminate (the lightemitting stack) including the organic light emitting layer 6. Formationof the organic light emitting layer 6 and the second electrode 7 andbonding of the enclosing member 8 may be done by the same method as theimplemented embodiment of FIGS. 5(a) to 5(g).

In the processes of forming the first electrode 5, the organic lightemitting layer 6 and the second electrode 7, they may be heated indeposition or the like in some cases. Further, with regard toapplication, heated compositions may be applied, or heating may beconducted in order to thermally curing. For example, a temperature forheating may be equal to or more than 100° C. and equal to or less than200° C. In this regard, when the linear expansivities does not satisfy arelation of α≦β≦γ and for example the linear expansivities satisfy arelation of α<γ<β or the like, there are considerable differencesbetween expansivities, and therefore at least one of the HR layer 3 andthe LR layer 2 are likely to be easily cracked when heated. However, inthe present implemented embodiment, the linear expansivities of themoisture-proof layer 1 a, the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 satisfy therelation of α≦β≦γ. Hence, even if heating is conducted in a process ofstacking the layers, occurrence of cracks can be suppressed. Further,the implemented embodiment of FIGS. 6(a) to 6(g) includes the grooveregion 12 and therefore stress caused by heating can be relieved by thegroove region 12. Consequently, it is possible to suppress occurrence ofcracks more effectively.

By performing the above process, it is possible to obtain the organic ELelement of the implemented embodiment of FIG. 3. According to the methodof producing shown in FIGS. 6(a) to 6(g), the linear expansivities ofthe stacked layers are adjusted, and therefore cracks can be suppressedfrom occurring. Further, the groove region 12 is formed, and theauxiliary wire 13 is formed inside this groove region 12, and the grooveregion 12 is filled with the insulating part 14. Therefore, currentdistribution can be improved, and consequently it is possible to obtainthe organic EL element with more uniform light emission in plane andimproved light-outcoupling efficiency. Note that, when at least one ofthe auxiliary wire 13 and the insulating part 14 is unnecessary, acorresponding process of forming may be omitted from the process shownin FIGS. 6(a) to 6(g).

Note that, the organic EL element of the implemented embodiment of FIG.4 may be produced in accordance with the process of producing shown inFIGS. 6(a) to 6(g). In more detail, the process of producing the organicEL element of the implemented embodiment of FIG. 4 is the same as theprocess shown in FIGS. 6(a) to 6(g) except the insulating layer 15 isformed on the surface of the translucent substrate 1 before the LR layer2 is formed. Accordingly, it is possible to obtain the organic ELelement of the implemented embodiment of FIG. 4.

According to the present invention, it is possible to produce a lightingdevice by use of the above organic EL element. This lighting deviceincludes the organic EL element, and therefore the light emittingperformance of the lighting device can be improved. The shape of thelight emitting surface of one organic EL element may be a rectangular orsquare shape with 10 cm or more in length and 10 cm in width or more,for example, but is not limited thereto. The lighting device may includea plurality of organic EL elements arranged in plane. The lightingdevice may include a wiring structure for supplying energy to theorganic EL element. The lighting device may include a casing for holdingthe organic EL element. The lighting device may include a plug forelectrically interconnecting the organic EL element and a power supply.The lighting device may have a panel shape. The lighting device may havea plane shape. The lighting device can be thinned, and therefore it ispossible to provide a lighting fixture suitable for saving space.

EXAMPLES

The organic EL element which corresponded to the implemented embodimentof FIG. 1 but was devoid of the auxiliary electrode 10 and theinsulating film 11 was prepared. The translucent substrate 1 includesthe moisture-proof layer 1 a made of a glass substrate. This glasssubstrate has a refractive index of 1.51 and a linear expansivity of32×10⁻⁶/° C.

Further, on the surface of the glass substrate, the LR layer 2 and theHR layer 3 were formed by application. The materials used for Examplesand Comparative Examples are listed below.

In Example 1, the material of the LR layer 2 is resin (refractive index:1.51) containing filler, and the material of the HR layer 3 is resin(refractive index: 1.82) containing high refractive index fineparticles.

In Example 2, the material of the LR layer 2 is resin (refractive index:1.50) containing filler, and the material of the HR layer 3 is resin(refractive index: 1.82) containing high refractive index fineparticles.

In Example 3, the material of the LR layer 2 is resin (refractive index:1.48) containing filler, and the material of the HR layer 3 is resin(refractive index: 1.68) containing high refractive index fineparticles.

In Comparative Example 1, the material of the LR layer 2 is resin(refractive index: 1.48) containing filler, and the material of the HRlayer 3 is resin (refractive index: 1.82) containing high refractiveindex fine particles.

In Comparative Example 2, the material of the LR layer 2 is resin(refractive index: 1.48) containing filler, and the material of the HRlayer 3 is resin (refractive index: 1.72) containing high refractiveindex fine particles.

Note that, the linear expansivities of the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3used in Examples and Comparative Examples are listed in TABLE 1. Theuneven structure 4 at the interface between the LR layer 2 and the HRlayer 3 was formed by use of material containing particles as thematerial of the LR layer 2.

The substrate with the light-outcoupling structure provided by stackingof the LR layer 2 and the HR layer 3 was prepared. Thereafter, the firstelectrode 5, the organic light emitting layer 6 and the second electrode7 were stacked by deposition, and they were enclosed with the enclosingmember 8. The first electrode 5 was made of ITO. The second electrode 7was made of Al. The enclosing member 8 was made of glass material with arecess. By doing so, the organic EL element was produced.

The substrates with the light-outcoupling structures of Examples andComparative Examples were subjected to heat shock at 200° C. for 15minutes, and presence or absence of cracks was observed visually andwith an optical microscope. TABLE 1 shows results of such observation.

As shown in TABLE 1, it is confirmed that cracks are suppressed when thelinear expansivities fulfill the relation of α≦β≦γ.

TABLE 1 Linear Expansivity [10⁻⁶/° C.] Presence or High absence ofMoisture Proof Low refractive refractive clacks after layer (α) layer(β) layer (γ) heat shock Example 1 32 55 56 Absence Example 2 32 43 56Absence Example 3 32 72 85 Absence Comparative 32 72 56 Presence Example1 Comparative 32 72 61 Presence Example 2

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

-   1 Translucent substrate-   1 a Moisture-proof layer-   2 LR layer-   3 HR layer-   4 Uneven structure-   5 First electrode-   6 Organic light emitting layer-   7 Second electrode-   8 Enclosing member-   9 Enclosed inner space-   10 Auxiliary electrode-   11 Insulating film-   12 Groove-   13 Auxiliary wire-   14 Insulating part-   15 Insulating layer-   16 Extended electrode

The invention claimed is:
 1. An organic electroluminescence element,comprising: a translucent substrate; a first electrode with lighttransmissive properties; an organic light emitting layer; a secondelectrode; an LR layer; an HR layer having a refractive index higherthan a refractive index of the LR layer; an uneven structure provided atan interface between the LR layer and the HR layer; a groove regiondividing at least the HR layer; and an auxiliary wire provided insidethe groove region, the first electrode, the organic light emittinglayer, and the second electrode being stacked on the translucentsubstrate in this order, the translucent substrate including amoisture-proof layer facing the first electrode, the LR layer and the HRlayer being situated between the moisture-proof layer and the firstelectrode in this order from the moisture-proof layer, the organicelectroluminescence element satisfying a relation of α≦β≦γ, wherein αdenotes a linear expansivity of the moisture-proof layer, β denotes alinear expansivity of the LR layer, and γ denotes a linear expansivityof the HR layer, the groove region being constituted by a plurality ofstraight grooves extending in a horizontal direction and in a verticaldirection, the groove region having a mesh-like shape, a grid-shape, ora lattice shape, the auxiliary wire being in contact with the firstelectrode and having a shape corresponding to a shape of the grooveregion in a plan view, and parts of the first electrode being formedinside the groove region.
 2. The organic electroluminescence elementaccording to claim 1, further comprising: an auxiliary electrode whichhas a mesh-like shape and is provided on a surface of the firstelectrode.
 3. The organic electroluminescence element according to claim2, further comprising: an insulating film on a side of the auxiliaryelectrode close to the organic light emitting layer.
 4. The organicelectroluminescence element according to claim 1, wherein the grooveregion divides both the HR layer and the LR layer.
 5. The organicelectroluminescence element according to claim 1, wherein the grooveregion becomes smaller in width towards its bottom than at its top. 6.The organic electroluminescence element according to claim 1, whereinthe auxiliary wire has a thickness equal to or shorter than a depth ofthe groove region.
 7. The organic electroluminescence element accordingto claim 1, further comprising: an insulating part provided inside thegroove region so as to be closer to the second electrode than theauxiliary wire is.
 8. The organic electroluminescence element accordingto claim 1, further comprising: an insulating layer between themoisture-proof layer and the LR layer, the organic electroluminescenceelement satisfying a relation of α≦σ≦β≦γ, wherein σ denotes a linearexpansivity of the insulating layer.
 9. The organic electroluminescenceelement according to claim 1, wherein: the LR layer is made of a resin,and the HR layer is made of a resin.
 10. The organic electroluminescenceelement according to claim 7, wherein the insulating part fills up thegroove region and forms a flat surface with the first electrode.